Congratulations! You're almost at the finish line - you're getting closer and closer to meeting your little bundle of joy.
At this point, packing your hospital bag is likely on your baby to-do list, but what exactly should you include in it?
Well, we have an idea or two 😉. And as always, we've got you fully covered! In this article, we'll go over all the essentials, plus all the game-changers that you'll want to bring along with you to the hospital too. So get your pen and Notepad out and let’s dive into it!
Be comfortable
Okay, we get that being “comfortable," and "labour" seem to fall on opposite ends of the scale, but trust us, anything that can make your delivery more comfortable is worth packing. Whether it’s fuzzy socks to keep your feet warm and cozy throughout your stay, or perhaps it’s your favourite robe that you plan to lounge in postpartum, think about what makes you most comfortable and then pack it!Â
Next, every hospital provides you with a delivery gown, but honestly, they're just not great. Like, not at all. They're itchy and uncomfortable, and because the back is completely open, you might end up showing off more than you want to. So, our first big suggestion to you: think about upgrading to a better delivery gown.
Our reco? We love Three Little Tots Labor & Delivery + Nursing Gown because it's exceptionally comfy, has snaps down the back to keep your back end closed, has snaps in the front for easy access to nursing and skin-to-skin once baby is out, and its also super flexible if you need an IV or if you get an epidural. Honestly, they really thought of everything when designing this one, which is why we curated it in our Rumbly Modern Labor & Delivery box.
Next up: your hair! Picture your labor like going to the gym and having your hair all draped over your sweaty face, except it is even much more intense than that (yes, it’s possible).
Our reco? Add a scrunchie or some hair ties to your hospital bag (we include an amazing luxe set in our Month 9 Rumbly Subscription box) or perhaps even a headband. You'll thank us later.Â
Stay charged
Your phone is going to be everything during this time. Whether you're timing contractions, FaceTiming family after your little one arrives or hitting play on that push playlist that you spent hours putting together, this is not the time to stress over how much charge is left on your phone.Â
This is a must! Make sure you bring a portable charger for all your devices that you plan on bringing with you to the hospital (i.e. phone, tablet, bluetooth speaker, etc.). Also, depending on the hospital where you plan to give birth, the outlets may not be conveniently located, so consider bringing an extra-long cord that will reach you when lying in the bed. Our reco? We have received amazing feedback on the 10ft multi-charger that is currently curated in our Rumbly Modern Labor & Delivery box which simply does it all - it can charge anything, anywhere, anytime!
Refresh your skin
Okay, not going to sugarcoat it...labour is going to take a lot out of you, and you're going to feel pretty gross afterward. This is why having a few essentials in your bag to refresh and cleanse after you deliver will help you feel sooooo much better.
A favourite of ours? We particularly love the Nuria Calm Cleansing Milk Face Wash because it makes your skin feel sensational. Period. But whatever you prefer to use, just make sure you bring something that is going to make you feel refreshed because TRUST us, you're going to need it!
Postpartum Must-Haves
You may be surprised at how much you need for postpartum care.
Some hospitals provide basic items like pads and diapers, but often these are not the best quality or are not sufficient enough to keep you comfortable throughout your recovery period.
So what do you really need? At a minimum, we recommend bringing postpartum underwear, a peri bottle and cooling pads.
The peri bottle is intended for cleaning down there after you go to the bathroom, which helps with healing and comfort; while cooling pads are great for relieving any soreness and are especially helpful if you experience any tearing or have a c-section.Â
Your Partner's Bag
You aren't the only one that should pack a bag - your partner should too! Â
Here are a few things they should pack:Â
- Comfortable clothing, especially if you end up staying longer than planned
- Comfortable shoes for pacing aroundÂ
- Their own phone charger and any necessary electronics, such as a laptop or tabletÂ
- Snacks and drinks because they will likely be there for the long haul too
- Personal hygiene items like their own toothbrush, deodorant, etc. to help them freshen upÂ
The Basics
Of course, we have to include a mention of the basics that you should pack in your hospital bag too, such as:
- A toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Body wash
- Deodorant
- Clothing and diapers for the baby
- A carseat already installed and ready to go
- Snacks
- Chapstick (all that breathing = dry lips)
- Mints or gum
- Any medical forms/insurance cards that you may need
Your Delivery, Your Way
We know you've got a lot on your mind right now - including worries about your delivery, what feeding and sleeping will be like after baby arrives, and so on. Packing your hospital bag is one more thing on an endless list of to-dos.
That's why we want to make it easier on you with our Rumbly Modern Labor & Delivery box. We've curated all of the things you didn't know you needed for a better and less stressful labour experience, and we've also helped to take some of that guesswork out of packing your hospital bag, so you can focus more on preparing for the million other things you may need to do before your little one's arrival.
Our Rumbly Modern Labour & Delivery box is not only all things to help level up your delivery but also makes for a most thoughtful and appreciated baby shower gift. Instead of giving yet another onesie or baby blanket, give the gift of Rumbly. Your favourite pregnant mom will be so grateful you did!
Â
